HBOT Concussion Treatments in Sports

Fortunately the days of “walk it off” are long gone and concussions have become a major health concern in sports medicine, particularly for football players. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is one of the lowest-risk, proactive treatments available for a child suffering from post-concussion syndrome. In numerous studies, Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment has proven to alleviate symptoms, improve physical exam results and cognitive measurements. Standard treatments often involve medications that can have side effects. For safe, effective treatment of post-concussion syndrome ask your physician about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

The treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury, {TBI} Concussion,

Post Concussion Syndrome (PCS) and PTSD with HBOT

These serious injuries are center stage on the sports page and more troubling on the front page, as military personnel suffer the same symptoms from the blast from explosive devices in the Middle East.

Peak Performance Athletic Recovery Systems

Current concussion and post concussion syndrome “treatment” consists of repeating neurologic testing followed by rest. When the rest period is over the patient is returned to his previous status – post concussion – or the patient continues to be disabled. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the ONLY real treatment for traumatic brain injury. Results from hyperbaric oxygen therapy include: reduction of brain swelling (bruising); stimulation of new blood vessel growth; activation of idle and injured neurons; clearance of free radicals and reduction of substances that cause cell injury; and improved blood flow to areas that are important to memory, mood and behavior. All these effects serve to mitigate or eliminate post concussion syndrome symptoms and improve neurologic function. Adverse symptoms such as headaches, confusion, nausea, tinnitus, dizziness, memory/concentration deficiency, insomnia, motor function fatigue and mood irritability drastically improve. Treatment protocol is 1.5 ATA 100% oxygen for 40 one-hour treatments and studies demonstrate that at these levels the improvements are permanent.

The Department of Defense and Dr. Harsch (LSU) have published the definitive data on the benefits of this treatment. These studies include patients with symptom for longer than 6 months as well as patients thought permanently grossly impaired and unable return to full function. PTSD is substantially improved. Brain imaging studies before and after HBOT demonstrate increased blood flow and cellular activity in previously quiet areas. Overall improved functionality was confirmed by neurological and psychological testing. Early recognition and intervention is key in interrupting and reversing the symptoms of PCS. HBOT can abbreviate or eliminate costly rehabilitation. Acute concussion is best handled by first clearance in the emergency department with evaluation to include CT brain scan. HBOT should then begin with recommended treatments of 5 to 10 sessions at 1.5 ATA 100% oxygen for one hour.

A note about migraine headaches – HBOT offers significant and immediate symptom relief within the first 30 minutes of treatment. Protocol is the same as it is for acute concussion. HBOT treatment for migraine eliminates expensive emergency department visits and drug treatments that often have unwanted side effects.